Does a tenant always need home insurance?

It is not mandatory by law in all cases, but it is highly recommended; some contracts expressly require it.

Who pays for an urgent repair due to a water leak?

If the leak threatens habitability or causes serious damage, the owner must act; the tenant may perform urgent measures and later claim the cost if justified.

Does insurance cover theft inside a rented home?

It depends on the policy and whether there was negligence. Check exclusions and content coverage limits.

Home Insurance for Tenants in Spain

Repairs & upkeep (who pays what) 3 min read · published September 11, 2025

As a tenant in Spain it is important to understand what a home insurance policy covers when you live in a rented property. Many policies protect your personal belongings, civil liability for damage to third parties and, in some cases, costs for temporary accommodation. Distinguishing basic coverages, exceptions and who must pay for repairs reduces surprises and conflicts with the landlord. This guide explains clearly and practically what a tenant's insurance usually covers, when it is the owner's responsibility to repair, how to claim with the insurer and what documentation to keep to defend yourself.

Coverages for tenants

The home insurance taken out by a tenant or by the owner can include different coverages. Always review the policy to know what applies to your situation and keep a copy of the documents.

Personal belongings: furniture, appliances and valuable items located in your home.
Civil liability: covers damage to third parties caused by you or people under your care.
Damage from water, fire or vandalism: depending on the policy, it may include structural and content repairs.
Temporary accommodation costs if the property becomes uninhabitable after a loss.

In many policies the tenant's furniture is not automatically covered and requires express inclusion.

Who pays for repairs

In general, the owner is responsible for keeping the property in habitable condition and carrying out structural repairs and main installations. The tenant usually takes care of minor routine repairs or damage caused by their negligence. For concrete limits and obligations check the applicable regulations and your rental contract.^[1]

Always keep photos and quotes when you notify damage to the landlord or the insurer.

How to claim with the insurer

If you suffer a loss follow these basic steps to claim and increase your chances of success:

Document the damage with photos and lists of affected items.
Notify your insurer of the loss within the timeframe stated in the policy.
Request a repair estimate and keep invoices and receipts.
If there is disagreement, file a written complaint and keep copies of everything.
If there is no resolution, consider legal advice or going to the competent court.

A file with dates, photos and communications speeds up any claim before insurers or courts.

Frequently asked questions

Does a tenant always need home insurance?: It is not mandatory by law in all cases, but it is highly recommended; some contracts expressly require it.
Who pays for an urgent repair due to a water leak?: If the leak threatens habitability or causes serious damage, the owner must act; the tenant may perform urgent measures and later claim the cost if justified.
Does insurance cover theft inside a rented home?: It depends on the policy and whether there was negligence. Check exclusions and content coverage limits.

How to (step-by-step)

Review your contract and the policy to know responsibilities and deadlines.
Document the loss with photos and an inventory of damages.
Notify the loss in writing to the insurer and the landlord.
Request estimates and keep invoices to substantiate it.
If the company denies coverage, file a formal complaint and consider legal advice.

Key takeaways

Check what the policy covers and keep an accessible copy.
Document damages with photos and dated communications.
Contact the insurer first and then seek advice if there is a dispute.

Help and support / Resources

Categories

Tenancy types (primary home, seasonal, student) Term length and renewals (LAU) Tenant early termination (notice and penalty) Landlord non-renewal (grounds and deadlines) Legal deposit and regional lodging Additional guarantees (surety, rent guarantee) Initial rent, stressed areas & reference index Annual rent updates (caps and indexes) Bills & charges (HOA, property tax, utilities) Repairs & upkeep (who pays what) Works and improvements during tenancy Inventory, condition report & keys Landlord access & viewings Subletting & assignment Pets, noise & neighbour relations Municipal registration (padron) & address Social/affordable housing (VPO/VPP) Rent assistance (Youth bonus & regional) Eviction for arrears or end of term Claims & mediation (consumer offices) Unfair terms & nullity Contract registration & taxes (RLI, ITP) Energy performance certificate (EPC) Tourist lets vs seasonal lets Habitability, damp & unhealthy conditions Accessibility and reasonable adjustments Data protection & tenant documents (GDPR)